ACTIONS: The overlapping spectra of these three
antibiotics provide effective bactericidal action against most
commonly occurring gram-positive and gram-negative
bacteria associated with infections of the eyes. The range
of bactericidal activity encompasses many bacteria which
are, or have become, resistant to other antibiotics, notably
Pseudomonas and Staphylococcus. In susceptible
organisms, resistance rarely develops, even on repeated or
prolonged usage.

Hydrocortisone acetate exerts a marked
anti-inflammatory action at the tissue level and effectively
suppresses inflammation in many disorders of the
anterior segment of the eye. Local application to the eye
often gives rapid relief of pain and photophobia, particularly
in lesions of the cornea. The combined anti-inflammatory
and antimicrobial activity of Vetropolycin® HC
(bacitracin-neomycin-polymyxin-hydrocortisone acetate
1%) veterinary ophthalmic ointment permits effective
management of many disorders of the anterior segment of
the eye in which combined activity is needed.

INDICATIONS: It may be used in acute or chronic
conjunctivitis, when caused by organisms susceptible to
the antibiotics contained in this ointment. Laboratory tests
should be conducted including in vitro culturing and
susceptibility tests on samples collected prior to treatment.

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Ophthalmic preparations
containing corticosteroids are contraindicated in the
treatment of those deep, ulcerative lesions of the cornea
where the inner layer (endothelium) is involved, in fungal
infections and in the presence of viral infections.

WARNINGS: All topical ophthalmic preparations containing
corticosteroids with or without an antimicrobial agent, are
contraindicated in the initial treatment of corneal ulcers.
They should not be used until the infection is under control
and corneal regeneration is well under way.
Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that
corticosteroids administered orally or by injection to animals
may induce the first stage of parturition if used during the
last trimester of pregnancy and may precipitate premature
parturition followed by dystocia, fetal death, retained
placenta, and metritis.

Additionally, corticosteroids administered to dogs during
pregnancy have also resulted in other congenital anomalies,
including deformed forelegs, phocomelia, and anasarca.

PRECAUTIONS: Sensitivity to the ophthalmic ointment is
rare, however, if a reaction occurs, discontinue use of the
preparation. The prolonged use of antibiotic-containing
preparations may result in overgrowth of non-susceptible
organisms including fungi. Appropriate measures should
be taken if this occurs. If infection does not respond to
treatment in two or three days, the diagnosis and therapy
should be reevaluated. Animals under treatment with this
product should be observed for usual signs of
corticosteroid overdose which include polydipsia, polyuria
and occasionally an increase in weight. Use of
corticosteroids, depending on dose, duration, and
specific steroid, may result in inhibition of endogenous
steroid production following drug withdrawal. In patients
presently receiving or recently withdrawn from systemic
corticosteroid treatments, therapy with a rapidly acting
corticosteroid should be considered in unusually stressful
situations. Care should be taken not to contaminate the
applicator tip during administration of the preparation.

ADVERSE REACTIONS: Itching, burning or inflammation
may occur in animals sensitive to the product. Discontinue
use in such cases. SAP and SGPT (ALT) enzyme elevations,
polydypsia and polyuria have occurred following parenteral
or systemic use of synthetic corticosteroids in dogs.
Vomiting and diarrhea (occasionally bloody) have been
observed in dogs.

Cushings syndrome in dogs has been reported in
association with prolonged or repeated steroid therapy.
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION: Apply a thin film over
the cornea three or four times daily. The area to be treated
should be properly cleansed prior to use. Foreign bodies,
crusted exudates and debris should be carefully removed.
Insert the tip of the tube beneath the lower lid and express
a small quantity of the ointment into the conjunctival sac in
dogs and cats.

CAUTION: Federal law restricts this drug to use by
or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.